ACT Targets Rising Insurance Costs with Comprehensive Inquiry
ACT Targets Rising Insurance Costs with Comprehensive Inquiry
0
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is launching a thorough investigation into the escalating insurance costs that have been a cause for concern for businesses and community organizations.
This inquiry aims to shed light on the factors contributing to rising premiums and their broader impact.
Driven by the Legislative Assembly’s Standing Committee on Economics, Industry, and Recreation, the inquiry will explore several pivotal issues, including how insurance costs in the ACT measure against those in other regions, with a keen focus on workers' compensation and climate change impacts. "We are particularly interested in suggestions for improving the insurance sector to make it easier for small businesses and organisations to operate in the ACT," said committee chair Taimus Werner-Gibbings.
The investigation is set to delve into important topics like public liability claim trends, litigation behaviors influencing premium costs, and the challenges non-governmental and community projects face in accessing insurance coverage.
Part of the inquiry will also evaluate how insurance entities assess risks and consider public and private sector efforts in risk reduction. This is especially pertinent for community sports, recreation, and the creative arts when using government venues and facilities, as these requirements significantly affect their operations.
Additionally, the inquiry will examine models for offering public sector policies to community organizations, extending the scope to those that operate across state lines or on an international level.
According to the Canberra Business Chamber, there’s been a pressing need for action regarding insurance costs, which have been soaring to levels that many companies find unsustainable. "Increases in insurance premiums ultimately translate into price increases for customers and make it harder for businesses to operate sustainably," remarked CEO Greg Harford.
The chamber highlighted in its September-quarter Canberra Business Beat report that 44% of surveyed businesses experienced premium hikes exceeding 20% over two years, with these increases surpassing inflation rates.
Mr. Harford pointed out that although insurance costs are generally concerning, workers' compensation in the ACT stands out as particularly troublesome. "The chamber is hearing about huge price hikes for workers’ compensation insurance, and members report that it is substantially more expensive here in the ACT than in NSW or other jurisdictions," he added, noting the competitive disadvantage this creates for ACT-based businesses compared to those in other states.
Submissions for the inquiry are open until March 14, with the committee yet to announce when the findings will be reported.
The source of this information is from previous reports and statements, including insights from Greg Harford of the Canberra Business Chamber.
Published:Tuesday, 28th Jan 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
Insurtech Australia has officially announced the upcoming InsurtechLIVE26 conference, scheduled for 18 February 2026 at Doltone House Jones Bay Wharf in Sydney. This event is poised to be a pivotal gathering for professionals in the insurance and technology sectors, aiming to explore and advance innovation within the industry. - read more
Insurance Australia Group (IAG), a leading insurer in the Australian market, has highlighted the escalating impact of climate change on home insurance premiums. The company reports that the increasing frequency and severity of weather events are significant factors driving up the cost of home insurance for Australians. - read more
The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) has recently released a white paper highlighting the urgent need for reforms to state and territory civil liability laws, which have remained largely unchanged for nearly 25 years. These outdated laws are contributing to significant increases in public liability insurance premiums, affecting a wide range of businesses across the nation. - read more
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has released its latest National Claims and Policies Database (NCPD) statistics, revealing a substantial increase in public liability insurance premiums over recent years. According to the data, premiums have risen by 40% since 2015, a rate that surpasses general inflation and places additional financial strain on businesses across the country. - read more
Sydney-based insurtech company Upcover has launched a new management liability insurance product designed specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and sole traders across Australia. This offering aims to provide comprehensive protection against a range of risks, including employment disputes, official investigations, tax audits, financial crimes, statutory liabilities, and allegations of legal breaches. - read more
Life insurance is a financial product designed to provide peace of mind by offering a safety net for your loved ones in the event of your passing. The primary purpose of life insurance is to ensure that your family is financially protected, allowing them to maintain their standard of living even without your income. - read more
Financial security for families is an essential consideration in any household. Life can be unpredictable, and ensuring that your loved ones are protected from financial hardship in your absence is a critical part of financial planning. - read more
Life is an unpredictable journey filled with twists and turns that can challenge even the most prepared among us. Sudden illnesses and unexpected injuries are just some of the uncertainties that can disrupt the harmony of family life. The emotional turmoil brought on by these circumstances is often compounded by the financial strain they can cause. It's during these trying times that the true value of peace of mind becomes clear. - read more
Life insurance might not be at the forefront of your mind, especially when you're young and healthy. However, understanding the essence of life insurance early on can significantly impact your financial future and provide much-needed peace of mind. - read more
Financial security is one of the most important aspects of modern family life. Ensuring that loved ones are protected and well-supported in the event of an untimely death is a fundamental concern for many Australians. - read more
Knowledgebase
Professional indemnity: An insurance that provides cover for liability incurred in the course of exercising a profession.
